Alison

Present: Woodside Energy, Perth

Bachelor of Science majoring in Physics

I am currently working for Woodside Energy in Perth as a graduate geophysicist. My degree was extremely valuable with regards to teaching me to think about problems and issues in a methodical and logical manner, but more importantly to go on and find solutions.

I chose Newcastle because it was the closest Uni to my hometown that offered Physics degrees. Secondly, Newcastle had more affordable living costs to Sydney and offered a great lifestyle, close to the beach.

The small classes allowed a close knit network between students and academics. My degree was mentally stimulating and challenging, but rewarding in a supportive environment.

My advice for students thinking of a science degree is to aim high. Passes might get you through a degree, but good grades will give you the flexibility and variety of options to choose a great job for yourself at the end of the degree.

Make sure you have a great work / life balance by participating in as much as you can through your degree, and never be afraid to ask for help from staff or your peers.

Matthew

Bachelor of Mathematics/Bachelor of Science (chemistry major)

After going straight from high school to university, I am now currently in my second year of the four year program - Bachelor of Mathematics/Bachelor of Science (chemistry major) and I am thoroughly enjoying it.

One of the great things about undertaking a combined degree program is that it allows you to gain extra qualifications in a shorter period of time. Both the standalone Bachelor of Mathematics and then the Bachelor of Science are three year degree programs, however combining these only requires four years of study.

What most people don’t realise is that maths is much more than adding together numbers. New ideas and whole branches of mathematics are still being discovered today. In the maths department at the University of Newcastle, ground breaking research is being produced by our academics, some of which are the best in the world in their fields. As a mathematics student, I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to assist with some of this research over the summer holidays where I was awarded a scholarship.

If you have uncertainties about any aspect of university life, talk to someone, either by phone or at one of the University info days. Make sure you study what you are passionate about, keep an open mind, don’t limit your options and you will succeed. And most importantly, have fun!

Kristen

Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences)

I chose to study Bachelor of Science (Biological Sciences) at Newcastle because the university offered programs and courses which I was interested in and it was close to where I lived.

I enjoyed the flexibility of the Bachelor of Science. There is a lot of freedom in course choices and a good variety of courses to choose from.

The staff at the University are very knowledgeable and helpful. Academic staffs are always willing to share their knowledge and assist students.

Future students should choose courses that they are interested in and that they think they will enjoy. Work hard, and most of all have fun!

Monica

Bachelor of Science (Earth Sciences) (Honours)

There is a great lifestyle in Newcastle. Newcastle geology students have excellent contacts with industry and most students at Newcastle uni studying geology gain part-time employment with local geology companies, the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) or mines within the Hunter Valley. Newcastle uni also has an AUSIMM student chapter, and active Geological Association of staff and students.

The Earth Science department is a very close-knit community. My favourite part of the Geology program was the field trips. There are dedicated lecturers and small class groups. The lecturers within the Earth Science department are always willing to help, and enthusiastic about the courses they teach.

I'm currently undertaking an Honours project in Carbon Capture and Storage, looking at serpentinities in the New England Fold Belt. It's a very topical project, and ground breaking work within Australia. Next year I hope to get accepted into a grad program to work as a geologist in a mine. This would not be possible without my qualification and is made a great deal easier from the practical approaches to geology at Newcastle uni.

As a future student, look at cross-institutional study as an option - most courses can be undertaken at Newcastle, but if there's a course from another uni that you are interested in, you can do that course through cross-institutional study, and still get all the benefits from studying at Newcastle uni.

John

Present: Currently undertaking PhD (Chemistry)

Bachelor of Science with a major in Chemistry (Honours)

I chose the Uni as it had the best subject offerings/combinations, as well as a great location and highly regarded reputation.

I did chemistry and physics at high school and they helped in my first year as they gave me ground knowledge of science.

The most rewarding aspect of my time at Newcastle was my honours year. I gained a great deal of knowledge and confidence in that knowledge which has aided greatly in my future studies.

There was a large practical component involved in the program. I found it well organised, relevant and interesting. It assisted my education and understanding of many aspects within my learning.

I am currently undertaking a PhD in chemistry, designing anti-epileptic drugs with the Medical Chemistry group at Newcastle University. My degree has enabled me to undertake this research.

The best thing about my degree program is that it allowed me the choice and freedom to pursue my interests through relevant subjects.